Decade for Childhood

The Decade for Childhood provides a platform for a global conversation about childhood and the exchange of ideas and experiences, the dissemination of knowledge, and the consideration of best policies and practices. Through collaboration and partnerships at local, regional, national, and international levels, we will extend our work, especially when enriched by insights across multiple sectors, including education, health, ecology, recreation, sociology, and psychology.

The Ten Pillars of aGood Childhood

The Ten Pillars of a Good Childhood are a starting point that can be used to consider what a good childhood looks like today. Please use these pillars for your engagement with this decade. How are they relevant to the experience of childhood in your home, your community, or your nation? Share the Ten Pillars with others. We would like to hear your opinions about the pillars and about creative ways that the pillars have been used by you to guide policies and practices related to the experience of childhood.

Safe and secure places for living and learning, with access to health care, clothing, shelter, and nutritious food

Strong families and loving, consistent caregivers

Social interactions and friendships

Creative play and physical activity

Appreciation and stewardship of the natural environment

Creative expression through music, dance, drama, and the other arts

Education that develops the full capacities of the child—cognitive, physical, social, emotional, and ethical

Comparison of the 10 Pillars with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. See the comparison chart here.

Take the Pledge

Yes, I am concerned about the state of childhood in the 21st century and want to work with others to create positive conditions in which all children can grow with hope, joy, freedom, and promise for the future.